Broccoli-Cheddar Meatloaf
A savory meatloaf filled with broccoli and cheddar, coated with chili sauce and crackers for a crunchy topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crush 12 crackers and mix with ground beef, chopped onion, 2 tablespoons of chili sauce, chopped parsley, and beaten egg.
- Pat the meat mixture into a 12 x 8 inch rectangle on waxed paper.
- Reserve 2 tablespoons of shredded cheddar cheese; sprinkle the remaining cheese and thawed, drained broccoli onto the meat mixture.
- Coarsely break the remaining 12 crackers and sprinkle over the broccoli.
- Press lightly into the meat mixture.
- Roll the meat into a jelly roll fashion and seal the ends to form a loaf.
- Place the loaf into a 13 x 9 x 2 inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 55 minutes.
- During the last 5 minutes of baking, spread the remaining 2 tablespoons of chili sauce over the meatloaf.
- Sprinkle with the reserved shredded cheddar cheese and continue baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider using a combination of ground beef and ground turkey. If you don't have premium crackers, crushed bread or breadcrumbs work well as a substitute. You can also replace the chili sauce with ketchup or barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile. Make sure to drain the broccoli thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the meatloaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Broccoli-Cheddar Meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Family Goulash for a comforting dinner experience. Try adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Cheddar Meatloaf contains roughly 1656 calories, with 43g protein, 308g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (164% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (156% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1269mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture, shape it, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This can save time and make dinner prep easier.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).